CH3COONH4 is the chemical formula for ammonium acetate. It is a salt that is composed of ammonium ions (NH4+) and acetate ions (CH3COO-). Ammonium acetate is commonly used in various laboratory and industrial applications, and rarely used in the food industry. It is approved and used as a food additive by many countries and regions.
| Chemical Formula | CH3COONH4 |
|---|---|
| E-code | E264 |
| CAS No. | 631-61-8 |
| HS Code | 29152910 |
| Molecular Weight | 77.0825 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Purity | Typically available with a purity of 98% or higher |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Odor | Odorless |
| pH (5% solution) | Typically around 6-7 |
| Density | Approximately 1.17 g/cm3 |
| Melting Point | Approximately 114-116 °C (237-241 °F) |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes above 250 °C (482 °F) |
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances. |
What does CH3COONH4(Ammonium Acetate) Do?
In Laboratory and Industrial Applications
Buffering Agent: CH3COONH4 is commonly used as a buffering agent in laboratory settings. It helps maintain a stable pH in solutions, especially in the slightly acidic range. This property makes it useful in biochemical and molecular biology experiments where maintaining a specific pH is critical.
Chemical Reagent: CH3COONH4 is utilized as a reagent in various organic synthesis reactions. It can be involved in processes such as esterification, amidation, and acetylation. Its presence can influence reaction rates, yield, and product formation.
Protein Precipitation: CH3COONH4 is employed in protein purification techniques to precipitate proteins from solution. By adjusting the concentration of ammonium acetate in a protein sample, proteins can be selectively precipitated and separated from other components.
Mass Spectrometry: CH3COONH4 is often used in mass spectrometry as an ionization reagent. It helps promote the ionization and desorption of analytes, facilitating their detection and analysis in the mass spectrometer.
Chemical Crystallization: The ability of CH3COONH4 to form crystals makes it useful in various chemical crystallization processes. It can be utilized to grow crystals for X-ray diffraction studies, purification of compounds, or obtaining solid forms of chemicals.
In Food Industry
Acidity regulator: It can be used to adjust and control the pH of food products, helping to maintain stability and enhance taste.
Flavoring agent: CH3COONH4 can contribute to the flavor profile of certain food products.
Yeast nutrient: It can act as a nitrogen source for yeast during fermentation processes in bakery and brewing applications.
Anticaking Agent: In some cases, CH3COONH4 may be used as an anticaking agent in powdered or granulated food products. It helps prevent clumping or caking of the particles by reducing moisture absorption and maintaining the free-flowing properties of the product.
In What Foods You Might Use It?
Sauces and dressings: CH3COONH4 may be used in certain types of sauces and dressings to adjust acidity levels and enhance flavor profiles.
Pickled vegetables: It could be used in pickling brines to provide acidity and contribute to the overall flavor of pickled vegetables.
Baked goods: In some bakery products, CH3COONH4 might be utilized to control pH levels, affect dough fermentation, or contribute to the desired flavor profile.
Cheese and dairy products: CH3COONH4 may potentially be used in certain cheese production processes or dairy products where pH adjustment or flavor enhancement is desired.
Seasonings and spice blends: It could be incorporated into specific spice blends or seasoning mixes to contribute to the overall flavor profile.
Acidic beverages: CH3COONH4 could potentially be used in certain acidic beverages, such as flavored drinks or carbonated beverages, to adjust pH levels and enhance flavor profiles.
Fruit preparations: It may be used in fruit preparations, such as fruit fillings or fruit-based sauces, to provide acidity and flavor enhancement.
Confectionery: In some confectionery products, CH3COONH4 might be used to control pH levels, influence texture, or contribute to the desired flavor characteristics.
Meat and poultry products: It could potentially be used in certain meat or poultry products to adjust pH levels, enhance flavor, or contribute to marinades or brines.
Processed seafood: CH3COONH4 may be utilized in certain processed seafood products where pH adjustment or flavor enhancement is desired.
Is CH3COONH4(Ammonium Acetate) a Strong Acid?
No, CH3COONH4 is not a strong acid. It is a weak acid, its pH value is typically around 6-7. When CH3COONH4 dissolves in water, it partially dissociates into ammonium ions (NH4+) and acetate ions (CH3COO-). The dissociation process is reversible, meaning that only a fraction of the CH3COONH4 molecules ionize in water.
The weak acidity of CH3COONH4(Ammonium Acetate) is due to the fact that it does not completely dissociate into hydrogen ions (H+) in water.
What are the Side Effects of CH3COONH4(Ammonium Acetate)?
CH3COONH4(Ammonium Acetate) is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in accordance with approved levels and guidelines. However, as with any substance, excessive consumption or improper usage of ammonium acetate can have potential side effects.
It’s important to note that the side effects and severity can vary depending on factors such as individual sensitivity, dose, and route of exposure. It is crucial to use ammonium acetate in accordance with approved regulations, guidelines, and safe handling practices.
In conclusion, ammonium acetate (CH3COONH4) is a compound that finds various applications in laboratory and industrial settings. While it is not commonly used as a food additive, it has been approved for use in many countries and regions for specific purposes.
When used as a food additive, ammonium acetate can serve as an acidity regulator, flavor enhancer, yeast nutrient, and anticaking agent in certain food products. Its precise usage and approved levels may vary depending on the regulations of each country or region.
It’s important to note that food regulations are subject to change, and it is essential to refer to the official guidelines and regulations provided by the respective food authorities in each country for the most accurate and up-to-date information. If you’re interested in ammonium acetate (CH3COONH4) and wish to learn more, please contact [email protected].
